Order Line 08715 265 265 * Calls cost 13p per minute plus network extras.
With the first spring sunshine comes the temptation to throw off our winterwear and leap straight into sweltering summer styles – but the weather hasn’t quite caught up with our imaginations just yet.
That’s where layering comes in. Where in winter you could pop on your thickest warmers and call it a day, springtime is all about lighter layers and bringing breezy variety back into both your life and your wardrobe.
With temperatures often starting cold and warming up through the day, layering is vital for staying comfortable as the hours go by. Too hot at midday? Just take off a layer! And if you cool off again, you can pop it back on to snuggle up warm.
But though layering is essential, it can be a little tricky if you do it without thought. Below are our top tips on layering technique, plus our picks of stylish layers to see you through the spring.
As with many parts of life, when it comes to layering, less is more.
Although it might seem counterintuitive, staying warm in early spring isn’t about piling on as many layers as you can until you feel like the Michelin man. In reality, the key to effective layering is to trap pockets of air which will stay warm and keep you toasty for longer.
So, too many thick layers are a no-no. At most, you want one thick layer, whether that’s a chunky knit or a versatile, insulating coat – but not both. In most cases, wearing two chunky items together in spring will leave you sweating the second you start walking.
But how do you decide which is right? Well, think about what you’re up to that day. If you’ll be mostly indoors with your coat off, choose a thicker jumper or cardigan and stick to a thinner coat. If you’ll be outdoors all day long, then go for a warm, thick, waterproof coat and choose thinner layers underneath.
Remember, switching to lighter knitwear as the temperatures warm is the best way to stay comfortable and reduce bulk in your outfits.
Now you know to avoid too many thick garments when layering, you’re ready to get started, right? Well, not exactly. There’s more to consider than just bulk.
Ever gone out wearing a few layers, only to feel uncomfortably moist once you’ve worked up a sweat? To some degree, that’s to be expected – but choosing the right fabrics to layer with can help to wick the moisture away from the skin, leaving you feeling cool and refreshed once more. To do this, aim for light, breathable natural fabrics like cotton.
It’s also important to remember how layering keeps you warm – by trapping heat against you. Because of this, you need to leave space for those air pockets, meaning you don’t want to be wearing lots of skin-tight layers. Opt for something looser that allows friction between the layers as you move – this will help to generate warmth throughout the day.
Lastly, consider your colours of choice. By definition, layering involves combining several items of clothing to put together an outfit, so you’ll need to choose hues that match, complement or contrast each other to make the look work.
If you’re shade-savvy and feel confident mixing bold colours, go for it! But if you’re a little more hesitant about putting together a combination that works, remember that you can always rely on neutrals. A good rule of thumb is to go for neutral base and outer layers, which can then be mixed and matched with more colourful mid layers such as knitwear and blouses.
Base layer…
Heatguard Pointelle Thermal Short Sleeve Vest
Also available with long sleeves.
FROM £10
Mid layer…
Pintuck Printed Blouse – Pink
Also available in Blue, Aqua, Lemon and Soft Green.
FROM £24
Outer layer…
Cable and Diamond Design Jumper – Coral
Also available in Wine, Hydrangea, Lavender, Pink and Turquoise.
FROM £22
Base layer…
Mid layer…
Pegasus Two Pack Cotton Plain Pique Polo – Sky Blue
Also available in Royal Blue, Mint and Lemon.
FROM £26
Outer layer…
Pegasus Fleece Lined Cable Knitted Zipper – Grey
Also available in Fawn, Navy and Petrel Blue.
FROM £38
Spring doesn’t have to mean cold chills or sweaty sunshine - with the right layers, you can stay comfortable all day long. Whatever you have planned, dress for the occasion with our range of styles for both men and women.
See our privacy policy to understand how we process your data to send you marketing emails
Copyright © 2026 Chums
PayPal Representative Example:
Representative 23.9% APR (variable) Purchase interest rate 23.9% p.a. (variable) Assumed Credit limit £1,200. PayPal Credit and PayPal Pay in 3 are trading names of PayPal UK Ltd, 5 Fleet Place, London, United Kingdom, EC4M 7RD. Terms and conditions apply. Credit subject to status, UK residents only, Chums Ltd acts as a broker and offers finance from a restricted range of finance providers. PayPal Pay in 3 is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Pay in 3 eligibility is subject to status and approval. 18+. UK residents only. Pay in 3 is a form of credit. Check if affordable and how you will repay. May make other borrowing more difficult or expensive. See product terms for more details.
